Sunday, July 15, 2012

BRAZIL | 2012 Meet the Misses e.26 - Miss Mundo Brasil 2012

Brazil is the world's fifth largest country, both by area and by population with over 192 million people. It is the only Portuguese-speaking country in the Americas and the largest lusophone country in the world. Brazil was a colony of Portugal from the landing of Pedro Álvares Cabral in 1500 until 1815, when it was elevated to the rank of kingdom and the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and the Algarves was formed. The colonial bond was broken in 1808, when the capital of the kingdom was transferred from Lisbon to Rio de Janeiro, after Napoleon invaded Portugal. The independence from the kingdom was achieved in 1822. Initially independent as the Empire of Brazil, period when it was governed under a constitutional monarchy, the country has been a presidential republic since 1889. Brazil is home to a diversity of wildlife, natural environments, and extensive natural resources in a variety of protected habitats. Brazilian topography is also diverse and includes hills, mountains, plains, highlands, and scrublands. Brazil has a dense and complex system of rivers, one of the world's most extensive, with eight major drainage basins, all of which drain into the Atlantic. Major rivers include the Amazon, the Paraná and its major tributary the Iguaçu, the Negro, São Francisco, Xingu, Madeira and Tapajós river. Brazil's large territory comprises different ecosystems, such as the Amazon Rainforest, recognized as having the greatest biological diversity in the world, with the Atlantic Forest and the Cerrado, sustaining the greatest biodiversity. In addition of its natural resources, Brazil is widely known for its great soccer record, its extensive cultural heritage and the famous cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Brazil debuted in Miss World 1958 and produced a winner in 1971 with Lucia Petterle. Mariana Notarângelo da Fonseca, Miss Mundo Brasil 2012, will be the nation's representative in Miss World 2012.

1. Give us an introduction of yourself, your country and your hometown.

My name is Mariana Notarângelo da Fonseca, I am 22, and I was born in Rio de Janeiro, where I have been living ever since I was a child. I study Medicine (4th year), I enjoy swimming, traveling, and recently I've developed a passion for surfing! Rio de Janeiro é known as the "wonderful city", a magical place filled with happy and fun people, great beaches, an amazing night life, and lots of things to do and see. Rio is perfect for all tastes! Brazil is a large country, in extension, population and diversity. We have welcomed people from all over the world, which has resulted in a variety of cultures, and colors. Brazil is living a great moment and soon it will host the World Cup and the Olympic Games, which will happen in my city, Rio de Janeiro!

2. What are your plans for the future?

Right now I have my eyes on the Miss World crown! This is my immediate goal. I intend to graduate from the university and become a doctor specialized in cardiology.

3. What are you most proud of?

I am very proud to be able to do what I always wanted to: attending Medical school. I am also very proud of my work as a Red Cross volunteer. It's an amazing experience.

4. Which activities make you lose track of time?

Going to the beach and reading. I love both and can simply forget about the rest!

5. If somebody was describing your personality what would they say?

I think they would describe me as easygoing, patient, friendly. There's no bad weather for me!

6. What is something you know you do differently than the most other people?

I try to look at things with a humble attitude, with maximum simplicity. Being objective and realistic helps me facing obstacles which may come my way.

7. Have you done anything memorable lately?

I have recently climbed the Gavea Stone (Pedra da Gávea), in Rio de Janeiro! It was a big challenge, but I was able to accomplish it.

8. Which is worse, failing or never trying? Why?

Never trying, definitely! Insecurity or fear can make people do not go for what they want. Isn't it horrible to live your life think, "what if I had done such and such thing?"?? I prefer to take risks, and if I fail, no problem. At least I tried it. What is next?

9. If you could teach anyone anything, what would that be?

As a student of Medicine, I'd love to teach people living in the rural areas or in the big cities who have no information and knowledge about basic sanitation, how they can live a healthier life, such as dental hygiene, children and women's health and diseases prevention, etc.

10. How do you define beauty? How will you prepare for Miss World to achieve your vision of beauty?

Beauty is something very personal and hard to define. It goes beyond a beautiful face and a perfect body. A great smile and a contagious personality can make a person look beautiful.

11. Share a message to your supporters and readers of The Times of Beauty.

I'd like to thank The Times of Beauty for this opportunity and all my supporters for their love and good vibes! Beijos from Brazil!!

and finally...

Personal Motto: Live the hours, as who reaps roses!

Favorite Food: Bobó de camarão, a dish from Bahia made with shrimp, it's delicious!

Favorite Color: White

Favorite Song: The Elephant Gun

Favorite Movie: Cold Mountain

Favorite Book: Pride and Prejudice

Favorite Singer/Band: Marisa Monte

Favorite Actor/Actress: Jude Law

SPECIAL THANKS

Henrique Fontes, National Director of Miss World in Brazil

Mariana Notarângelo da Fonseca, Miss Mundo Brasil 2012

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